The idea of letting your kids loose with their own clothing choices might fill you with dread, and images of your son going to school dressed as a T-rex or your daughter trying to copy the adult popstars she adores, but you know what? Fashion should be fun, and this is just as true for kids as it is for adults.
Letting your kids have more control of, and more fun with their wardrobe, is a great way to let them have more independence in a controlled way, and it can give them more confidence in life too. So, how can you let them enjoy the way they dress more?
1. Embrace the Mix-and-Match Madness
The first rule of fashion fun? There are no rules! Sure, you might not like what they are wearing, but as long as it covers everything it needs to and doesn’t contain any offensive logos, why shouldn’t your kids be allowed to mix and match their outfits to their heart’s content? Even if they look like a clown to you they’ll be loving it, and hey, it’s good to have some personality right?
2. Say Yes to Statement Pieces
Statement pieces might seem like something for adults, but you know what? Kids love them too, so why not let them pick out something that makes them feel like the star of their own show—whether it’s a glittery pair of shoes, a sparkly hat, or that fabulous girls fur coat they’ve been eyeing.
Sure, it might seem a bit much for the local park, but your kids will feel like rockstars when they step out in their statement pieces, so why not? It won’t hurt anyone and it could give them a huge confidence boost!
3. Encourage Themed Dress-Up Days
Who says dress-up is only for Halloween? Themed dress-up days are a fantastic way to get your kids excited about their wardrobe. Let them choose a theme for the day—whether it’s ‘Jungle Safari’ or ‘Princess Pirate Adventure’—and help them pick out clothes that fit the bill.
You can even make it a family affair! Dress up alongside them and turn it into a full-on themed day with matching activities. Not only does this make getting dressed more fun, but it also sparks their imagination. Bonus: You’ll get some seriously Instagram-worthy photos.
4. Let Them Take the Lead (But Be the Backup)
One of the best ways to let your kids have fun with their wardrobe is by giving them some control over what they wear. Let them pick out their outfit each morning, even if it means they’re headed to the grocery store in a ballerina tutu and cowboy boots.
Of course, there are moments when you need to step in (hello, unexpected snowstorm). In those cases, offer gentle guidance rather than outright vetoes. For example, “How about we add this snazzy jacket to your look so you stay warm and stylish?” That way, they still feel empowered, and you avoid the frostbite.
5. Encourage Creativity Through Customization
If your child is the crafty type. Then a really good way to encourage their hobbies and skills, and let them have fun with their wardrobe at the same time, is to let them customize their clothes. Sewing on buttons, ironing on patches of Hello Kitty or Spiderman, or even knitting their own hats and scarves, can all be fun projects to get into.
Let fashion be fun, even for your little ones!
